Cactus paths
Columns and spiny balls.
Adam Jones from Kelowna, BC, Canada — CC BY-SA 2.0 · Huauzontle23 — CC BY 4.0 · Nan.P.182 — CC BY-SA 4.0 · tendingos — CC BY 3.0
A botanical garden and nature reserve on a plateau above San Miguel de Allende, around a deep rocky canyon and a small lake behind an old dam, which gives it its name: «the mill pool». It works to protect the plants of Mexico's dry lands, above all cacti and succulents. You walk paths among cacti of every form, from tall columns to small spiny balls, look out from the canyon rim over the lake and its waterbirds, and see the town and its domes on the horizon. The garden has a glasshouse holding a collection of rare and endangered cacti. There are also stone channels and remains of colonial-era mills. Flowers bloom in spring and summer, colouring the paths, and many birds winter here. It is exposed to the sun, so bring water and a hat, and wear walking shoes. Guided tours in English run on set days, and you can also wander on your own.
Columns and spiny balls.
Waterbirds below.
Domes on the horizon.
North-eastern edge of San Miguel de Allende, about 15 minutes by car from the square
Yes, its paths are fairly easy, but shade is scarce. Come in the morning with water, and keep children away from the canyon edge.
